hp

¹ American  

abbreviation

1. horsepower.

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H.P. ² American  

Or h.p.,

abbreviation

1. Electricity. high power.

2. high pressure.

3. horsepower.

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HP British  

abbreviation

1. hire-purchase

2. horsepower

3. high pressure

4. (in Britain) Houses of Parliament

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Compare meaning

How does hp compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• bhp vs. hp

Example Sentences

Hybrid owners will enjoy a bump of 42 hp and 79 lb-ft while fuel economy soars to 29-34 mpg, depending on trim level and options.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Slamming 1,250 hp to the ground in an electromechanically coupled instant, the ZR1X can bolt to 60 mph in under 2 seconds on its way to a ¼-mile under 9 seconds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

Horsepower equals grinding power and ranges from ⅓ to one hp.

From Washington Post • Feb. 14, 2023

Cadillac doesn’t offer a more powerful engine upgrade, though there is an available turbocharged six-cylinder diesel that churns out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft.

From Seattle Times • May 25, 2022

Davos sat beside his candle and looked at the letters hp had scratched out word by word during the days of his confinement.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin